What should I do if I don't want to have physical contact while dating

Not wanting physical contact during a romantic relationship is a normal psychological phenomenon, which may be related to personal personality, growth experiences, or psychological state. This situation does not require forcing oneself to change or excessive anxiety, the key is to find an intimate way that both parties can accept. Some people's aversion to physical contact stems from personality traits or a strong sense of psychological boundaries. Introverted and sensitive individuals often take longer to establish trust, and a lack of physical contact experience in childhood may create a sense of unfamiliarity with intimate behavior, while anxious attachment types are prone to associate physical contact with a sense of loss of control. In these cases, gradual desensitization exercises can be used to adapt to contact, such as starting with non sensitive areas such as shaking hands or lightly tapping the shoulders, while openly communicating with the partner about one's emotional threshold.

In rare cases, it may indicate a psychological state that requires attention. Patients with post-traumatic stress disorder may avoid contact due to specific triggering scenarios, while those with obsessive-compulsive disorder may develop a fear of contamination when touched by others. Physical sensitivity associated with depression can also exacerbate feelings of rejection. If accompanied by insomnia, low mood, or flashback symptoms, it is recommended to seek professional psychological assessment. Cognitive behavioral therapy and systematic desensitization therapy have good effects on improving contact fear. Establishing intimate non physical contact can also maintain emotional quality. Discussing the plot together after watching a movie, collaborating on manual activities such as completing puzzles, and maintaining daily deep conversations can all create emotional connections. Both partners can create a list of levels of contact, specifying acceptable types and scenarios of contact, and using safe word mechanisms to protect their sense of boundaries. It is important to understand that intimate relationships have multiple forms, and physical contact is not the only criterion for measuring the depth of love.